Dry Mouth, Another of the Hepatitis C Symptoms

I read an article on Sunday that talked about Hepatitis C Symptoms that I have never heard discussed and thought I would pass on the information as well as the 10 suggestions from the article for it's releif. I am refering to the common problem among hep c patients with dry mouth. The actual number of people that suffer from it is debatable but I know for a fact that it is part of having the disease, at least in some cases. This condition is called xerostomia and it is simply a situation where the mouth just doesn't make enough saliva.

This can lead to problems with dental health and even be a factor in acceptance as a liver transplant candidate. This article indicates that the depression medication that many Hep C patients are on, as well as methadone that some may be on, might be partially the cause of xerostomia. To my knowledge there has been no formal study of the issue but here is the list offered in the article that may provide some releif:

10 Tips for Helping Xerostomia

Since saliva acts to protect your teeth from bacteria, there is plenty of reason to avoid a chronic dry mouth. While your doctor and dentist should be aware of your oral health issues, below are ten ways to help restore moisture in your mouth:

1. Regularly sip water and sugarless drinks.

2. During meals, sip water to help with chewing and swallowing.

3. Chew sugarless gum or suck on hard sugarless candy to help stimulate saliva flow.

4. Avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol because they all dry the mouth.

5. During the night, use a humidifier.

6. Avoid spicy and salty foods as these can exacerbate a dry mouth.

7. Reduce bacteria and plaque in your mouth by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.

8. Minimize sugary, sticky foods, and brush immediately after their consumption.

9. Visit your dentist at least twice a year.

10. Discuss a salivary substitute with your healthcare provider.
List was from this Article

This is a lifestyle altering disease and it is in the altering of the lifestyle that symptoms can often be controlled and delayed as long and as much as possible. There are also treatments available that can be effective for Hepatitis C that are beyond the scope of this article.

If you are possibly at risk, early diagnosis of the virus, even before you have Hepatitis c symptoms is extremely important. The earlier you know if you have Hep C, the more you can do. There is a FDA approved test that you can take in the privacy of your own home. You send it out for testing and get the results over the phone. No doctor visits involved. Find out for sure, click here for details.

Disclaimer—The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.

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